Simba Queens sporting director Selemani Makanya has expressed satisfaction with the signing of Kenyan goalkeeper Wilfrida Cedar emphasizing her vital role in the team’s pursuit of the Tanzanian Women’s Premier League title this season.Cedar, who was unveiled as a Simba Queens player on Wednesday after signing from Fountain Gates Princess, is expected to replace fellow Harambee Starlets player Carolyne Rufa.Rufa has been sidelined for the rest of the season due to injury. Cedar, a former Vihiga Queens player, joins the squad with high expectations.##NAJAVA_MECA_8605354##In an interview, Makanya praised Cedar’s abilities, noting that she had been closely monitored by the club before her acquisition. He expressed confidence in her ability to fill Rufa’s shoes, despite the loss of the team’s first-choice goalkeeper.“Wilfrida is an excellent goalkeeper, and we have been following her progress since her time at Fountain Gate Princess in the Tanzanian Premier League,” said Makanya.“We believe she will seamlessly step into Rufa’s role. Losing Rufa is a significant blow, but having a player of Wilfrida’s calibre gives us a strong chance to continue our fight for the title.”Makanya also highlighted Cedar’s discipline and work ethic as key factors in the club’s decision to sign her. “Beyond her talent, Cedar has shown exceptional discipline and dedication, which are qualities we value highly at Simba Queens,” he added.How Benni McCarthy’s expected appointment is a blessing to Harambee StarsCurrently top of the league with a two-point lead over second-placed JKT, Makanya remains confident about the team’s chances of defending their title. Winning the league would secure their qualification for the CAF Women’s Champions League qualifiers for the CECAFA Region.“We are in a strong position, and I’m confident we will win the league,” Makanya said. “The two victories we secured at the end of 2024 have put us at the top of the table. All we need is to maintain our focus and team spirit to achieve our goal of retaining the title.”Cedar becomes the seventh Kenyan player at Simba Queens, a club that is rapidly becoming a popular destination for Kenyan women footballers.Other Kenyan players at the club include Rufa, Jentrix Shikangwa, Corazone Aquino, Elizabeth Wambui, Ruth Ingotsi, and Wincate Kaari.STARS ABROAD: Masoud Juma on target in Iran as Richard Odada, Jonah Ayunga feature in Scotland
